Eugene “Gene” William Grimes, age 77, passed from this life on July 30, 2026. He was born September 6, 1948, to John and Letha Grimes in Yale, Oklahoma.
On March 31, 1967, Gene married Carolyn White, beginning a devoted union that spanned nearly six decades. Together they built a loving home and raised three sons: Kenny, Brian, and Jeffery. Gene took great pride in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather, and his family remained the center of his world.
Gene worked as a mechanic for Penske Truck Leasing, retiring after more than 28 years of dedicated service. He was known for his skillful hands, patient nature, and willingness to help anyone who needed something fixed. Whether it was a mower, a vehicle, or anything else that needed tinkering, Gene could make it run again.
Outside of work, Gene enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors. But his greatest joy came from time spent with his family — especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
Gene is survived by his wife, Carolyn Grimes; his sons, Kenny Grimes and wife Karen, Brian Grimes and wife Angie, and Jeffery Grimes and wife Niki; his siblings, Betty Savory, Junior Grimes, Doris Howard, Bill Grimes, Wanda Raines, and Barbara Curtis; grandchildren, John Grimes and wife Hadley, Amelia Franco and husband Francisco, Hayden Grimes, Ethan Grimes, and Megan Grimes; and greatgrandchildren, Zavi Franco, Eli Franco, Dusti Grimes, Juniper Grimes, Alex Rea, Sophia Rea, and Jace Rea and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters: Leonard Grimes, Juanita Marie Grimes, Glenda Mae Grimes, Evelyn Casinger, Myrtle Anderson and Havey “Sonny” Emmons and sister in law, Lynda Grimes.
Gene will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his steady hands, and the love he poured into his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the generations who carry his name forward. Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in the Ripley Church of God.
You may share your condolences with the Grimes family at www. matherlydavisfuneralhome.com.
